British Tri-Ang Tricycle from 1930s-1940s

Last weekend, I woke up bright and early to get ready for the Dunbar United Church annual thrift sale. I was a bit disappointed to see the huge line up when I showed up, but you never know with these sales so I stayed optimistic.

The doors finally opened and the big rush began. I couldn't believe how many people showed up! There were masses of household goods, clothing, kids toys and all the usual items. Then I came upon this little tricycle tucked away, right by the entrance.

I debated long and hard about this trike... I have no idea what to do with it, but it was $4 and I was really intruiged by its age and condition.

After doing some research and getting input from the admins of a tricycle fan site (yes, there are antique lovers of all sorts of things I suppose), it appears that this is a British Tri-Ang Tricycle made in the 1930s or 1940s! The company was made up of three brothers from the Lines Family. Three lines make a Triangle, so the company name was born.

In the early 1900s, the company was selling model trains and cars, and tricycles for kids. Production was stopped during WWII as the government deemed the factories necessary for production of weapons instead of toys.

The funny thing is that I was kicking myself about even wasting time going to this sale. It was crowded, full of low quality housewares, and I was disheartened to see a lady carrying out several boxes of Playmobil toys as I was arriving in the kids section. I was ready to head back home, and saw the tricycle as I was leaving. I think it's human nature to burst through the doors, get our bearings, and look around excitedly. I am guessing that's why this trike was still available when I was on my way out!

Linking up to ATG's Thrift Share Monday!